Method and Apparatus for Delivering Nicotine

ABSTRACT

A nicotine dispensing apparatus and method including at least one liquid containing insert and associated solid nicotine, wherein by applying pressure to the wall of the dispensing apparatus liquid can be released from the liquid containing insert and dissolve/absorb the associated solid nicotine for release and consumption by a consumer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/467,484, filed on Mar. 6, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”

Not applicable

BACKGROUND

One embodiment of the present invention relates to an improved article for delivering nicotine to a user, including a liquid containing capsule that can be broken to release the liquid and mix the liquid with encapsulated solid nicotine beads.

While certain novel features of this invention shown and described below are pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of the invention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated as being “critical” or “essential.”

BRIEF SUMMARY

One embodiment of the present invention includes a nicotine dispensing article, comprising a container having:

an exterior wall surrounding an interior;

a support element having a cavity or an insert, the support element being located in the interior; and at least one portion of solid nicotine and at least one liquid filled capsule both located in the cavity, wherein the insert can be a walled structure or simply a void space or cavity of the support element;

the at least one liquid filled capsule being crushable to release liquid into the interior of the insert and coming into contact with the at least one portion of solid nicotine which at least partially dissolves in the released liquid.

In various embodiments the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus can be comprised of wood, paper, plastic, polymers, metal, along with other materials that are sufficiently flexible to allow a user to sufficiently compress to fracture/break open a fluid containing capsule insert located in the interior.

In various embodiments one or more sheets of plastic, paper, homogenized tobacco paper, natural leaf, or other material (either non-smokable or smokable) can be used to form the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus.

In various embodiments, the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus can, after being compressed to fracture/break the liquid containing capsule, remain substantially in its “compressed/squeezed” configuration so as to indicate the location of a “squeeze” for nicotine dispensing apparatuses having multiple sets of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid filled inserts that can be fractured/broken/opened separately for substantially separate dispensing.

In various embodiments, the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus can, after being compressed to facture/break/open a liquid containing capsule, later expand to substantially to its “pre-compressed” configuration.

In various embodiments the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus can include directions on how to release the liquid in the one or more liquid containing capsules. In various embodiments the directions can include indicia indicating the location of a plurality of inserts and liquid containing capsules.

In various embodiments the liquid insert(s) support element can be comprised of acetate, sponge, natural or artificial fibers, synthetic filter material, metals, wood, and/or paper.

In various embodiments, a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid filled insert capsules or beads can be housed inside the nicotine dispensing apparatus.

In various embodiments the plurality of capsules, beyond liquid, can include one or more of the following: flavoring, energy supplement, vitamin, diet supplement, relaxation enhancement supplement, scenting agent. In various embodiments the items beyond liquid can themselves comprise liquid.

In various embodiments one or more of the inserts can include encapsulated liquid beads.

In various embodiments a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts can be contained in the cavity, the liquid inserts including capsules with liquid which is released by applying pressure on the wall of the nicotine delivery apparatus which pressure is transmitted to the particular capsule.

In various embodiments at least two of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts are of different sizes and/or strengths of nicotine delivery. In various embodiments the amount of portions of solid nicotine can differ. In various embodiments the amounts of liquid can differ.

In various embodiments at least two of the liquid inserts are of different colors indicating different types and/or strengths of nicotine along with different flavors.

In various embodiments the cavity, beyond housing portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid capsules, can house one or more inserts of flavoring.

In various embodiments at least two of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts include different strengths of nicotine.

In one embodiment the container includes instructions on how to release the liquid and administer the nicotine.

In one embodiment the container includes instructions on how not to release and administer the nicotine.

In one embodiment a plurality of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts are contained in the cavity, the respective liquid containing capsules including liquid which is released by applying pressure on the particular capsule and which liquid picks up/dissolves at least a part of its respective portion of solid nicotine. In various embodiments at least 10 percent of the respective portion of solid nicotine is picked up/dissolved. In various embodiments at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, 99, and 100 percent of the respective portion of solid nicotine is picked up/dissolved. In various embodiments the amount of the respective portion of solid nicotine that is picked up/dissolved can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages.

In one embodiment at least two of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts are of different sizes, volumes, and/or strengths of nicotine when each portion of solid nicotine is compared.

In one embodiment at least two of the capsules of different colors indicating different size, volume, and/or strength of nicotine.

In one embodiment the at least one portion of solid nicotine/respective liquid insert is individually packaged so as to be separated from the delivery apparatus.

In one embodiment a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts are packaged so as to be separated from the delivery apparatus.

In one embodiment the package includes instructions on how to release the nicotine and instructions on how to achieve different strengths of nicotine delivery.

In one embodiment one or more of the liquid inserts can be dissolvable under certain conditions, such as where the insert comes into contact with moisture, saliva, heat, flame, etc.

In one embodiment one or more of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts can be packaged for sale separately from a nicotine delivery apparatus, and include instructions on placing one or more of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts into a nicotine delivery apparatus.

In one embodiment an insertion tool such as a rod with end clamp could be included with any of the kit embodiments to facilitate the users insertion of the one or more of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts into the nicotine delivery apparatus. For example, insertion could be in the wall of a filter or wall of a nicotine delivery apparatus at a selected location. In one embodiment the kit could include instructions regarding the insertion of the plurality of a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts into a particular nicotine delivery apparatus.

In one embodiment could be included the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts packaged for sale in a kit to be added to a nicotine delivery apparatus. In one embodiment a refillable nicotine delivery apparatus could be included in the kit.

In one embodiment the kit could include advertising related to the properties of the inserts for enhancing sizes, volumes, and/or strengths of nicotine to be delivered.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 includes perspective views of two nicotine dispensing apparatus with a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained therein in a spaced apart relationship along the longitudinal axis of the dispensing apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of a nicotine dispensing apparatus with a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained therein in a spaced apart relationship along the longitudinal axis of the dispensing apparatus, with one of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid insert enlarged for better viewing;

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of a nicotine dispensing apparatus with a plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained therein in a spaced apart relationship along the longitudinal axis of the dispensing apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one of the portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid insert, enlarged for better viewing;

FIG. 5 schematically shows force being applied to release one of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained in a nicotine dispensing apparatus, and then suction being applied to one end of the dispensing apparatus to dispense the now dissolved portion of nicotine;

FIG. 6 schematically shows force being applied to release a second one of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained in a nicotine dispensing apparatus, and then suction being applied to one end of the dispensing apparatus to dispense the now dissolved second portion of nicotine;

FIG. 7 includes perspective views of FIGS. 1, 5, and 6 to provide an overall schematic illustration of squeezing and dispensing two of the plurality of portions of solid nicotine/respective liquid inserts contained in a nicotine dispensing apparatus;

FIGS. 8-9 are perspective views that illustrate the steps of tearing open the packaging to remove one of the nicotine dispensers contained therein;

FIG. 10 shows example instructions regarding use of the inserts which instructions are shown placed on the packaging of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view that schematically illustrates the method step of applying force to release the nicotine contained in one of a plurality of inserts in a nicotine dispensing apparatus;

FIG. 12 is a closeup view of the method step shown in FIG. 11; and

FIGS. 13-16 are enlarged perspective and sequence views that illustrate the method of the present invention wherein force is applied to rupture/break a liquid containing capsule inside an insert and wherein the liquid that is released from the capsule dissolves nicotine crystals housed in the insert.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structure or manner.

FIG. 1 shows a nicotine dispenser 10 having a plurality of inserts 100, 200, 210, 220 (or others). Each insert 100, 200, 210, 220 can house a plurality of solid nicotine bars or nicotine crystals 160,202,212,222, (or others) and a liquid containing capsule or ball 213. Each insert 100, 200, 210, 220 can be a void space housing the nicotine crystals or bars 160, 202, 212, 222 and capsule or ball 213 or can have an insert wall that surrounds and contains the crystals/bars 160, 202, 212, 222 and capsule or ball 213. In one embodiment a single insert 100 is used with a single portion of solid nicotine (e.g., crystals or bar) 160 (see FIGS. 2, 4, 13-16).

Nicotine dispenser 10 can have first and second ends 1110 and 1120. In one embodiment indicia 50,52,54,56, or others (such as in the form of arrows, letters, and/or numbers) can be used to visually indicate the position of one or more of the inserts to thus enable a consumer to easily position the correct point of squeezing for releasing the selected insert/solid nicotine pair (e.g., 100/160, 200/202, 210/212, 220/222, or others). Dispenser 10 includes a flexible wall 1140 comprised of a sheet, and an interior support array 500.

In various embodiments the spacing (e.g., between about 3 and 30 millimeters) between the liquid holding capsules or balls 213 about the longitudinal centerline 1144 is such that a consumer can squeeze one of the capsules 213 (e.g., capsule 213 in insert 100) without simultaneously activating the capsules or balls 213 in other inserts (e.g., inserts 200, 210, 220). A separate squeezing step for activating the second insert (e.g., breaking capsule 213 in insert 200) will be required.

Spacing in FIG. 1 is schematically shown by dimension lines 1236, 1237, and 1238. In various embodiments spacing between each of a plurality of inserts can be at least 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, and 30 millimeters in a longitudinal direction about the longitudinal centerline 1144 of dispensing apparatus 10. In various embodiments the spacing (1236, 1237, or 1238) can be between a range of any two of the above referenced lengths.

Although in the shown embodiments the inserts (e.g., 100, 200, 210, 220, etc.) have been shown as preferably located on longitudinal centerline 1144, such is not required and the inserts 100, 200, 210, 220 can be offset from longitudinal centerline 1144. In any such case the spacing is based on the distance from center to center of inserts 100, 200, 210, 220 when their centers are projected orthogonally onto the longitudinal centerline 1144 (when a particular center of a particular insert is not located on the longitudinal centerline).

In different embodiments the spacing can be different between different sets of inserts. For example, spacing 1236 can be not equal to 1237. In different embodiments the spacing can vary based on the longitudinal distance from the end of dispensing apparatus to be placed in the user's mouth. For example the spacing can increase as the distance from the second end 1120 is increased (e.g., spacing 1236 is larger than spacing 1237). Alternatively, the spacing can decrease as the distance from the second end 1120 is increased (e.g., spacing 1236 is smaller than spacing 1237). Such variable spacing is believed to provide the consumer with a variable amount of nicotine absorption in the body based on the particular insert being activated.

FIG. 2 is a cutaway perspective view of the nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1. Dispenser 10 includes a flexible outer wall 1140 (optionally providing removable section 1141). Wall 1140 forms a tube containing an interior section or support array 500. Interior section or array 500 can have a removable wall section 501. Nicotine dispenser 10 can have first and second ends 1110 and 1120. In one embodiment indicia 50, 52, 54, 56 in the form of arrows 1270, 1271, 1272 and 1273 can be used to visually indicate the position of one or more of the breakable liquid filled capsule 213 of an insert 100, 200, 210, 200—to thus allow a consumer to easily position the correct point of squeezing for releasing the selected capsule 213 of a selected insert (e.g., 100, 200, 210, 220, etc). In various embodiments the spacing (e.g., 1236, 1237, 1238, or others) between the inserts is such that a consumer can squeeze one of the insert capsules 213 without activating the other inserts. A separate squeezing step for activating the second insert (e.g., 200) will be required. Once the capsule 213 is ruptured or broken (e.g., see FIG. 14) the liquid 182 leaks from capsule 213 and mixes with and dissolves the solid nicotine 160 (see FIGS. 14, 15) all within an insert outer wall or envelope 110. Outer wall or envelope 110 can be plastic, polymeric, cellulose, or silicone as example. Alternatively, the array 500 can provide spaced apart cavities 108, 208, 228, etc. or void spaces (see FIG. 2) that would define inserts 100, 200, 210, 220.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of various nicotine inserts 100 which can be included in any of the embodiments. In FIGS. 2, 4, and 13-16, each nicotine insert 100 can comprise an outer wall 110 (e.g., cylindrical) with solid nicotine crystals or bar(s) 160 on the inside. Outer wall 110 can be various materials which are relatively sealing. For example, wall 110 can be plastic, silicone, cellophane, or polymeric. Outer wall 110 should seal capsule 213 and the solid nicotine product 160 on the interior 120 of an insert 100 (or 200, 210, 220). The nicotine material 160 can be any nicotine substance which is suitable for human consumption. A solid (e.g., bar or crystals) or gaseous nicotine 160 can be used. Capsule 213 is contained within outer wall 110 as seen in FIGS. 2, 4, and 13-16. Capsule 213 contains liquid 150 (e.g., any liquid that will dissolve nicotine 160). Capsule 213 is breakable in order to release the liquid (see 214 in FIGS. 14-15) so that it can dissolve the nicotine 160. Capsule wall 215 can be any breakable wall such as plastic, silicone, cellophane or a polymeric material. The nicotine product 160 in alternative embodiments can also include supplements in addition to nicotine such as flavoring, energy enhancement, mood calming, and/or tobacco juice or extracts.

In FIGS. 2-4 and 13-16, capsule 213 is shown as being spherically shaped. However, the capsule 213 can be a variety of shapes such as oblong, rectangular, spherical, or cylindrical.

As shown in FIG. 3, nicotine insert 100 can comprise an outer wall 110 with capsule 213 and nicotine 160 on the inside. Outer wall 110 can be various materials which are relatively sealing, along with being safe.

FIG. 5 includes a visual indicia 1274 of one of the inserts 101 being previously activated. In FIG. 5 the particular type of visual indicia of previous activation of insert 101 is the “remaining compressed” area 1274 of cylinder wall 1140 shows where the user has activated previously an insert. Other types of visual indicia of activation can be used such as a change in color, change in wall 1140 texture or feel, wall 1140 discontinuity, along with other visual indicia. Such visual indicia allows a user 1000 to use dispensing apparatus 10 at a first time by activating a first insert (e.g., insert 200) causing a first visual indicia to be created at the longitudinal location of the first insert (e.g., insert 200), and then at a later time activate a second insert (e.g., 100) without guessing as to what if any inserts had been previously activated (e.g., 100, 220, 240, or others). This visual indicia of past activation can be important as nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 can have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more nicotine inserts located at spaced apart longitudinal locations along center line 1144, and the user 1000 may not know what, if any, of the inserts were previously activated.

Such lack of knowledge of what if any inserts were previously activated, can cause a user 100 to activate more than one insert (e.g., insert 100 and 220) in guessing as to what locations to squeeze dispenser 10 (as squeezing at location of previously activated insert 101 provided no nicotine to the user 1000); and squeezing at multiple locations (e.g., at the locations of visual indicia 50, 52, 54, and/or 56) and possibly becoming frustrated with use of dispensing apparatus 10. Instead, a visual indication (e.g., 1274) tells a consumer 1000 which and how many of the total number of inserts are remaining to be activated in nicotine dispensing apparatus 10. In various embodiments the dispensing apparatus 10 can have a number of inserts falling between the range of any two of the above referenced quantities of inserts.

In one embodiment the packaging could include a plurality of inserts 100, 200, 210, 220 associated with a plurality of different strengths, volumes or quantities of solid nicotine crystals. In one embodiment the different strengths, volumes or quantities of solid nicotine crystals could include nicotine strength, volume, quantity indicia. For example, the inserts could be color coded (e.g., purple for low strength, red for high strength, etc.). As another example, the strength of the particular nicotine associated with the insert can be imprinted on the insert. As another example a unique identifier could be placed on the insert and a table of different strengths, volumes or quantities of solid nicotine crystals included with the kit. With different strengths, volumes or quantities of solid nicotine for the various inserts, the consumer now would have the choice to customize the nicotine strength, volume, or quantity. As another example, more than one insert associated with the same nicotine strength, volume, or quantity could be included allowing the consumer to customize the strength, volume, or quantity by using two or more of the same type of insert and associated solid nicotine crystals.

FIG. 8 shows a plurality of nicotine dispensers 10 and 11 packaged in packaging 1200, and schematically shows one nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 being removed from the packaging. FIG. 8 shows example packaging 1200 which can be used in various of the embodiments where the packaging 1200 can have instructions 1230 regarding use of the inserts. Packaging 1200 can have first and second ends 1210 and 1220. End 1220 can be opened to allow insertion of cigar or cigarillo 1100. Packaging 1200 is shown as a cellophane clear type packaging. However, other types of packaging can be used such as foil pouches or zip type foil pouches.

FIG. 9 schematically shows the step of tearing open the packaging 1200 to remove one of the nicotine dispensers contained therein. This figure also shows instructions 1230 on the packaging itself.

FIG. 10 shows an example set of instructions 1230 which can be included in any of the embodiments. Particular instructions/directions 1232 can be for the consumer, and can indicate that the consumer should to squeeze the product to release liquid for absorbing/dissolving the solid nicotine. Alternatively, particular instructions/directions 1234 can explain that the product should not be squeezed if nicotine is not desired. Set of instructions 1230 can include affirmative instructions 1232 on how to release nicotine (e.g., “squeeze to release nicotine/activate product”) and/or negative instructions 1234 on how not to release flavoring (e.g., “do not squeeze if do not want to release nicotine/activate product”).

FIGS. 11 and 12 schematically activation of a particular insert by the application of force (schematically indicated by arrows 1020) to release the nicotine contained in one or more of the nicotine inserts 100, 200, 220, etc. FIG. 12 is a closeup view of the step shown in FIG. 11. When a consumer 1000 squeezes the portion of outer wall 1140 of dispensing apparatus 1100 adjacent the respective capsule 213 of an insert 100 or 200 or 210 or 220, such action releases the liquid contained in the insert which released liquid activates the associated solid nicotine. The capsule 213 of one or more of the inserts 100, 200, 210, 220, etc. can be broken to release liquid to activate the solid nicotine 160 associated with the particular insert (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12 insert 100 is broken to release liquid at 182). The released liquid dissolves/absorbs the associated solid nicotine and then travels through interior section 500 such as by a “wicking effect” and is held in place about the interior volume of dispensing apparatus 10 until air flow through dispensing apparatus 10 “picks up” the dissolved/absorbed nicotine.

When activation is desired insert 100 can be squeezed causing the outer walls 110 of liquid insert to break and release liquid 182 that was contained in a capsule 213 or void space. Because the inserts 100, 200, etc. are located in the interior of dispensing apparatus 10, the released liquid will dissolve/absorb the associated nicotine and the consumer will receive the dissolved/absorbed nicotine when sucking air though dispensing apparatus 10. For example, when the consumer 1000 sucks on dispenser 10 after breaking open of insert 100, the direction of drawn air flow will preferably pass though the released liquid 182 and pick up or dissolve the associated solid nicotine 160 causing the air to pick up such nicotine.

During use filter 1300 is placed in the mouth of the consumer 1000, and the consumer sucks in air. Before, placement individual 1000 can have applied force (schematically indicated by arrows 1020) to release liquid and absorb/dissolve nicotine next to the broken inserts. Arrows 1050, 1051 schematically indicates that air is drawn into apparatus 10 through first end 1110. Air passing the activated insert will pick up released liquid and absorbed/dissolved nicotine (e.g., released liquid 182 shown in FIG. 5 and released liquid 204 shown in FIG. 6) and bring it towards first end and the user's mouth. Arrows 1050 and 1051 schematically indicate this process of air flow through dispenser 10 to pick up released liquid 182 and 204 along with absorbed/dissolved nicotine 160,202.

Method of Use

On embodiment provides a method of dispensing nicotine comprising providing a dispenser 10 having a flexible wall 1140, an interior support section 500, and at least one nicotine insert (e.g., 100) supported by the interior support section 500, the insert including liquid which is released by applying pressure on the flexible wall 1140 which transmits such pressure to the insert 100, the dispenser 10 including instructions 1230 on how to release nicotine; and offering for sale the provided dispenser 10.

In one embodiment the dispenser includes instructions 1232 on how to release nicotine.

In one embodiment the dispenser includes instructions 1234 on how not to release nicotine.

In one embodiment a plurality of liquid inserts (e.g., 100, 200, 210, 220, etc.) are contained in the interior support section 500 in a longitudinally spaced apart condition, the inserts including liquid which is released by applying pressure on the dispenser 10 at the particular longitudinal location of the particular insert (e.g., 200, or 100, etc.) to be activated. In one embodiment at least two of the inserts are of different sizes, strengths, and/or volumes of liquid.

In one embodiment at least two of the inserts are of different colors indicating different flavors.

In one embodiment the packaging 1200 includes instructions 1230 on how to release the nicotine and instructions on how to achieve different strengths of nicotine release.

In one embodiment at least two of the inserts (e.g., 100 and 200) are of differing sizes, strengths, and/or volumes of nicotine.

In one embodiment is provided a method and apparatus of dispensing nicotine which comprises the steps of:

(1) providing a nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 for dispensing nicotine to human user 1000, the dispensing apparatus 10 including

an outer wall 1140 enclosing an interior volume 1130;

an insert support section 500 being located in the interior volume 1130;

the apparatus 10 being packaged for sale where at least one nicotine insert (100) is supported by the insert support section 500 in the interior volume 1130;

(2) removing the nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 from the packaging 1200;

(3) squeezing the outer wall 1140 of the dispensing apparatus 10 at a first longitudinal position (e.g., 1271, 1272) to cause a release of liquid from the at least one insert (e.g., 100) and absorption/dissolving of a first solid nicotine (e.g., solid nicotine 160); and

(4) a user 1000 sucking air through the nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 (e.g., schematically indicated by arrow 1050 and 1051 in FIGS. 5 and 6) causing nicotine to enter the body of the person 1000 sucking the air (schematically indicated by arrows 1050 and 1051 with the air picking up the liquid and absorbed/dissolved nicotine 160 and 204).

In one embodiment one end 1120 of the nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 can include a filter allowing air to pass through the interior of the dispensing apparatus but filtering out particulate impurities from said air flow.

In one embodiment the nicotine dispensing apparatus 10 is removed from the packaging 1200 and held by the end 1120 having the filter.

In one embodiment a user 1000 at a first time activates a first insert (e.g., insert 100) causing a first visual indicia to be created at the longitudinal location of the first insert (e.g., insert 100), and then at a later second time, uses said existing visual indicia of activation to selectively activate a second insert (e.g., 200) which is spaced apart from the first insert 100 previously activated.

Phenylthiocarbamide (PTC), also known as phenylthiourea (PTU), is an organo sulfur thiourea containing a phenyl ring.

In various embodiments the methods and apparatus can be used to impact phenylthiocarbamide (“PTC”) taste thresholds with the user changing the user's individual taste threshold when using the method and apparatus. PTC has the unusual property that it either tastes very bitter or is virtually tasteless, depending on the genetic makeup of the taster. The ability to taste PTC is often treated as a dominant genetic trait, although inheritance and expression of this trait are somewhat more complex.

At least one study has found that non-smokers and those not habituated to coffee or tea have a statistically higher percentage of tasting PTC than the general population. PTC does not occur in food, but related chemicals do, and food choice is related to a person's ability to taste PTC. There is a large body of evidence linking the ability to taste thiourea compounds and dietary habits. Much of this work has focused on 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PROP), a compound related to PTC that has lower toxicity. A supertaster has more of an ability to taste PTC. On the other hand, heavy cigarette smokers are more likely to have high PTC and PROP thresholds (i.e. are relatively insensitive).

The following is a list of Reference Numerals used in this application with a description of the reference numerals.

Reference Numeral Description 10 nicotine delivery apparatus/nicotine dispenser 11 nicotine delivery apparatus/nicotine dispenser 50 indicia 52 indicia 54 indicia 56 indicia 100 insert 101 previously activated insert 108 cavity 110 outer wall/insert wall/envelope 150 liquid content 160 solid nicotine crystals/bars 182 released liquid 185 absorbed/dissolved nicotine in released liquid 200 insert 201 insert 202 solid nicotine crystals/bars 204 released liquid 206 absorbed/dissolved nicotine in released liquid 208 cavity 210 insert 212 solid nicotine crystals/bars 213 capsule/ball/liquid filled capsule 214 released liquid 215 capsule wall 216 absorbed/dissolved nicotine in released liquid 218 cavity 220 insert 222 solid nicotine crystals/bars 226 absorbed/dissolved nicotine in released liquid 228 cavity 240 insert 242 portion of solid nicotine crystals 260 insert 262 portion of solid nicotine crystals 500 interior section/array 501 wall segment/removable section 502 diameter of section 504 length of section 510 first end 520 second end 530 interior passage 532 diameter of interior passage 550 cavity for inserts 700 force arrow 730 instructions on use of flavoring inserts 740 affirmative instructions on how to use nicotine inserts 744 negative instructions on how not to use nicotine inserts 1000 individual 1020 arrow 1021 arrow 1050 air draw/arrow 1051 air draw/arrow 1054 air draw/arrow 1100 delivery apparatus 1110 first end 1120 second end 1130 interior/interior volume 1140 cylindrical wall/outer wall 1141 wall support/removable section 1144 longitudinal centerline 1150 length 1152 length 1154 length 1156 length 1170 sheet 1172 first edge 1174 second edge 1176 third edge 1178 fourth edge 1200 packaging 1210 first end 1220 second end 1230 instructions 1232 instructions for activation 1234 instructions to prevent activation 1236 spacing 1237 spacing 1238 spacing 1240 zip lock 1250 tearing notches 1260 perforation line for tear 1262 torn off section 1270 arrows indicating location of nicotine insert (and/or schematically indicating the use of force to activate flavoring insert) 1271 arrows indicating location of nicotine insert (and/or schematically indicating the use of force to activate flavoring insert) 1272 arrows indicating location of nicotine insert (and/or schematically indicating the use of force to activate flavoring insert) 1273 arrows indicating location of nicotine insert (and/or schematically indicating the use of force to activate flavoring insert) 1274 visual indicia of prior activation 1278 visual indicia of prior activation

It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in the appended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims. 

1. A nicotine dispensing apparatus, comprising: a) an outer tubular shell surrounding a shell interior; b) an interior filler material contained within said shell interior for supporting multiple spaced apart inserts, each of the multiple spaced apart inserts being associated with a portion solid nicotine; c) each insert including liquid which can be released by applying pressure to both the outer tubular shell and the released liquid dissolving/absorbing the associated solid nicotine; and d) one or more markers on the container that indicate to a user the location of each of the inserts.
 2. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a container that holds the shell and instructions on how to activate the nicotine with the insert.
 3. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the container includes instructions on how not to activate the nicotine with the insert.
 4. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an internal support structure, wherein a plurality of said liquid containing inserts are contained in the interior support structure in longitudinally spaced apart positions, and wherein each liquid containing insert can be selectively opened by applying pressure to the outer tubular shell of the dispenser without opening any other insert from the plurality of inserts, each of the inserts being associated with a portion solid nicotine which portion of solid nicotine is dissolved/absorbed by the liquid released from the particular insert by applying pressure to the particular insert.
 5. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 4, wherein at least two of the inserts are of different sizes.
 6. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 4, wherein at least two of the inserts are of different flavors.
 7. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one insert and associated portion of solid nicotine is individually packaged so as to be separated from the nicotine dispenser.
 8. The nicotine a dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shell can be opened and a plurality of inserts and plurality of associated solid nicotine are packaged separate from the container, enabling a user to add one or more inserts and associated solid nicotine to the filler material and wherein the shell can be opened, enabling access to the filler material. 9-12. (canceled)
 13. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the container has an inside diameter and the interior support structure has an outer diameter that is greater than said inside diameter, wherein the support structure fits inside the container with an interference fit.
 14. The nicotine dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the filler material includes a binder that holds the filler material in a selected shape. 15-23. (canceled)
 24. A method of dispensing nicotine comprising the steps of: (a) providing a nicotine dispensing apparatus that enables dispensing of nicotine to a human user, the dispensing apparatus including: a container having an outer shell enclosing an interior a filler material located in the interior container; multiple spaced apart inserts with each said insert supported within the container interior by said filler material, and said insert being associated with a portion solid nicotine; each said insert including liquid which can be released by applying pressure to the outer shell and the released liquid dissolving/absorbing the associated solid nicotine; the container being packaged for sale in a package; (b) removing the container from the packaging; (c) squeezing the outer shell of the container at a position that is identified by a marker on said outer shell; (d) wherein in step “c” the marker is next to a said insert so that squeezing the outer wall at the marker also squeezes the insert to release liquid from the at least one insert; (e) wherein in step “d” the released liquid dissolves the solid nicotine; and (f) wherein a user inhales air through the nicotine dispensing apparatus causing nicotine to enter the body of the user via the user's mouth.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein step “a”, the apparatus includes a filter allowing air to pass through the interior of the dispensing apparatus but filtering out particulate impurities.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein in step “a”, the outer shell is generally cylindrically shaped.
 27. The method of claim 24, wherein in step “a”, an insert support section contained in the shell, said structure having spaced apart sockets, each socket containing a said insert and associated solid nicotine.
 28. The method of claim 24, wherein each insert identified by a different marker, each insert having a parameter value that is different from the value of the parameter for the other insert or inserts and in step “c” the user squeezes a selected one of the markers so that only the insert next to the marker releases liquid and the released liquid dissolving/absorbing the associated solid nicotine. 29-33. (canceled)
 34. The method of claim of claim 31, wherein the container has an inside diameter and the interior filler has an outer diameter that is greater than said inside diameter, and wherein the interior filler fits inside the container with an interference fit.
 35. The method of claim 24, wherein the filler material includes a binder that holds the filler material in a selected cylinder shape and the shell is a coating that coats all or part of the filler material.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the coating is sprayed on the filler material.
 37. The method of claim 35, wherein the coating is formed when the cylinder of filler material is dipped in a liquid or slurry.
 38. The method of claim 35, wherein the shape is generally cylindrical. 